Festivals in Tennessee 2025: A Year-Round Celebration of Music, Culture, and Heritage

Tennessee, the Volunteer State, is synonymous with music, history, and Southern hospitality. Renowned as the home of country music, the blues, and rock 'n' roll, the state offers a vibrant festival calendar that celebrates its rich cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and natural beauty. In 2025, Tennessee’s festivals promise unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Tennessee’s festivals highlight its musical roots, historical significance, and warm community spirit. From world-famous events like the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival to charming small-town fairs, there’s something for everyone.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

List of Festivals in Tennessee 2025: Significance and Activities

Four Seasons of Tennessee Festivals

January

Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas (Extended)

• Date: January 1–7, 2025
• Location: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Significance: A magical extension of Dollywood’s celebrated Christmas event, bringing holiday cheer into the New Year.
• Activities:
  • Millions of twinkling lights and holiday decorations throughout the park.
  • Live Christmas shows, including performances by the Dollywood performers.
  • Festive food and drinks, such as spiced cider and holiday desserts.
• Tickets: Regular Dollywood admission tickets apply; holiday packages available.
• Transportation: Ample parking at Dollywood; shuttles run from local hotels.

Memphis International Blues Festival

• Date: January 26–28, 2025
• Location: Memphis, TN
• Significance: A tribute to the city’s rich blues history and legendary musicians.
• Activities:
  • Performances by iconic and up-and-coming blues artists.
  • Workshops on blues history and instruments.
  • Food vendors offering Memphis-style barbecue and soul food.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP passes available online.
• Transportation: Accessible via MATA public transit; parking available downtown.

February

National Black History Month Celebration at the National Civil Rights Museum

• Date: Throughout February 2025
• Location: National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN
• Significance: Celebrating African American history and culture through events and exhibitions.
• Activities:
  • Special exhibits on civil rights leaders and movements.
  • Live performances, including gospel and jazz.
  • Panel discussions and workshops on contemporary social issues.
• Tickets: Museum admission applies; event-specific tickets available online.
• Transportation: Parking available near the museum; public transit accessible.

Franklin Main Street Festival (Winter Edition)

• Date: February 24–25, 2025
• Location: Downtown Franklin, TN
• Significance: A charming winter celebration in historic Franklin.
• Activities:
  • Art and craft vendors showcasing local talent.
  • Food trucks serving seasonal dishes and hot beverages.
  • Live music performances and family-friendly games.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Street parking available; rideshare services recommended for convenience.

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March

Knoxville St. Patrick’s Day Parade

• Date: March 16, 2025
• Location: Downtown Knoxville, TN
• Significance: A lively celebration of Irish heritage in the heart of Knoxville.
• Activities:
  • A festive parade with floats, bagpipes, and dancers.
  • Traditional Irish food and drinks at local pubs.
  • Family-friendly activities, including face painting and crafts.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via Knoxville Area Transit; parking available downtown.

Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival

• Date: March 23, 2025
• Location: Public Square Park, Nashville, TN
• Significance: Celebrating Japanese culture and the blooming cherry blossoms in Nashville.
• Activities:
  • Live performances, including taiko drumming and traditional Japanese dance.
  • Food vendors offering sushi, ramen, and other Japanese delicacies.
  • Cultural exhibits, including tea ceremonies and origami workshops.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near Public Square Park; rideshare services encouraged.

April

Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival

• Date: April 26–28, 2025
• Location: Tom Lee Park, Memphis, TN
• Significance: A world-famous music festival celebrating Memphis’s musical heritage.
• Activities:
  • Performances by renowned artists across multiple genres.
  • Food vendors serving Memphis barbecue and international cuisine.
  • Art and craft displays highlighting local talent.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP passes available online.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; shuttle services provided.

Great Smoky Easter Arts & Crafts Show

• Date: April 10–12, 2025
• Location: Gatlinburg, TN
• Significance: A showcase of Appalachian craftsmanship and Easter-themed art.
• Activities:
  • Artisans demonstrating traditional crafts, including pottery and weaving.
  • Easter egg hunts and family-friendly activities.
  • Unique handmade gifts available for purchase.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available in downtown Gatlinburg; trolleys run to the venue.

May

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

• Date: May 16–19, 2025
• Location: Manchester, TN
• Significance: One of the world’s largest and most iconic music festivals.
• Activities:
  • Performances by international and emerging artists across multiple stages.
  • Art installations, yoga sessions, and food trucks.
  • On-site camping and late-night dance parties.
• Tickets: General admission, VIP, and camping packages available online.
• Transportation: Shuttle services from Nashville and nearby cities; parking available on-site.

Tennessee Renaissance Festival

• Date: Weekends, May 4–26, 2025
• Location: Castle Gwynn, Arrington, TN
• Significance: A medieval-themed festival in a picturesque castle setting.
• Activities:
  • Jousting tournaments and historical reenactments.
  • Artisan markets offering handcrafted goods.
  • Food and drink, including turkey legs and mead.
• Tickets: Available online; family packages offered.
• Transportation: Parking on-site; rideshare services recommended.

Tennessee Map with Festival Highlights

June

CMA Music Festival

• Date: June 6–9, 2025
• Location: Downtown Nashville, TN
• Significance: A premier event celebrating country music and its fans.
• Activities:
  • Performances by top country artists across multiple stages.
  • Meet-and-greets with popular country musicians.
  • Food trucks, artisan vendors, and family-friendly zones.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP packages available online.
• Transportation: Parking downtown is limited; public transit and rideshare services recommended.

Riverbend Festival

• Date: June 13–15, 2025
• Location: Chattanooga, TN
• Significance: A waterfront music festival featuring a mix of genres.
• Activities:
  • Live music from local and international artists.
  • Fireworks displays over the Tennessee River.
  • Food vendors and craft markets.
• Tickets: Day passes and weekend packages available online.
• Transportation: Free shuttles from downtown Chattanooga; limited parking near the venue.

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July

Fourth of July Fireworks on the River

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Downtown Nashville, TN
• Significance: A spectacular Independence Day celebration with music and fireworks.
• Activities:
  • Live patriotic concerts by local and national artists.
  • A grand fireworks display synchronized to music.
  • Food trucks and activities for kids.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking available downtown.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

• Date: July 12–21, 2025
• Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, TN
• Significance: A celebration of Appalachian artistry and craftsmanship.
• Activities:
  • Live demonstrations by master craftsmen.
  • Unique handmade items for sale, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
  • Live bluegrass and country music performances.
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available at city lots; shuttles run to the venue.

August

Memphis Elvis Week

• Date: August 9–17, 2025
• Location: Graceland, Memphis, TN
• Significance: A weeklong tribute to Elvis Presley’s life and music.
• Activities:
  • Candlelight vigil at Graceland.
  • Elvis tribute artist competitions and concerts.
  • Screenings of Elvis films and panel discussions with historians.
• Tickets: Event-specific tickets and packages available online.
• Transportation: Parking at Graceland is available; public transit options limited.

Sweet Tea & Sunshine Family Festival

• Date: August 24, 2025
• Location: Cleveland, TN
• Significance: A family-friendly festival celebrating Southern culture.
• Activities:
  • Sweet tea tastings and cooking contests.
  • Live bluegrass music and storytelling sessions.
  • Activities for kids, including inflatables and face painting.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; carpooling encouraged.

September

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

• Date: September 20–22, 2025
• Location: Downtown Bristol, TN/VA
• Significance: A celebration of the birthplace of country music.
• Activities:
  • Performances by bluegrass, country, and Americana artists.
  • Workshops on songwriting and Appalachian history.
  • Artisan markets and food vendors.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP passes available online.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; rideshare encouraged.

Music City Food + Wine Festival

• Date: September 27–29, 2025
• Location: Downtown Nashville, TN
• Significance: A gourmet event showcasing Tennessee’s culinary excellence.
• Activities:
  • Wine tastings and food pairings by top chefs.
  • Cooking demonstrations and interactive workshops.
  • Live music performances from local artists.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP packages available online.
• Transportation: Limited parking downtown; public transit and rideshare services recommended.

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October

Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue

• Date: October 25–26, 2025
• Location: Lynchburg, TN
• Significance: A global barbecue competition hosted in the hometown of Jack Daniel’s.
• Activities:
  • Barbecue tastings and competitions.
  • Tours of the Jack Daniel’s distillery.
  • Live music and craft markets.
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; shuttle services offered.

Great Pumpkin Luminights

• Date: October 1–31, 2025
• Location: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Significance: A family-friendly Halloween event with glowing pumpkin displays.
• Activities:
  • Scenic illuminated trails featuring carved pumpkins.
  • Live music and seasonal food offerings.
  • Trick-or-treat stations for kids.
• Tickets: Included with Dollywood admission.
• Transportation: Parking available at Dollywood; shuttles provided.

Musical Heritage Collage

November

Rocky Top Christmas Festival

• Date: November 15–17, 2025
• Location: Rocky Top, TN
• Significance: A festive kickoff to the holiday season in the Smoky Mountains.
• Activities:
  • Holiday craft markets and Christmas carol performances.
  • Visits with Santa and family photo opportunities.
  • Hot cocoa stands and seasonal treats.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; carpooling encouraged.

December

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

• Date: December 1–31, 2025
• Location: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Significance: A magical holiday celebration in the Smoky Mountains.
• Activities:
  • Millions of holiday lights and themed shows.
  • Seasonal food offerings and Christmas markets.
  • Festive rides and attractions.
• Tickets: General admission to Dollywood.
• Transportation: Ample parking available; shuttles run regularly.

Conclusion

Tennessee’s festival calendar in 2025 offers something for everyone, from world-class music and culinary events to family-friendly fairs and cultural celebrations. Each month showcases the best of Tennessee’s spirit, creativity, and hospitality, making the Volunteer State a must-visit destination.

FAQs About Tennessee Festivals 2025

1. What are Tennessee’s must-visit festivals in 2025?

• Iconic events include Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival, and CMA Music Festival.

2. Are Tennessee’s festivals family-friendly?

• Yes, many festivals like Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas and Great Pumpkin Luminights cater to families with activities for all ages.

3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Tennessee festivals?

• It’s recommended to purchase tickets early for popular events like Bonnaroo and Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue.

4. Can I bring pets to Tennessee festivals?

• Some outdoor festivals allow pets, but check individual event policies before bringing your furry friends.

5. What’s unique about Tennessee festivals?

• Tennessee’s festivals blend world-class music, rich history, and Southern charm, offering something for every visitor.

6. How can I get to Tennessee’s major festivals?

• Many events provide shuttle services, and parking is available near venues. Public transit and rideshare services are also popular options.

7. What food can I expect at Tennessee festivals?

• Enjoy everything from Memphis barbecue and Jack Daniel’s-inspired dishes to gourmet food pairings at culinary events.

8. When’s the best time to visit Tennessee for festivals?

• Spring and fall are peak festival seasons, with major events like Memphis in May and Jack Daniel’s Barbecue Invitational.

9. Are there free festivals in Tennessee?

• Yes, events like the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival and Franklin Main Street Festival offer free admission.

10. Can I volunteer at Tennessee festivals?

• Many festivals welcome volunteers. Check individual festival websites for opportunities.

11. Do Tennessee festivals celebrate local history?

• Absolutely, festivals like Jack Daniel’s Invitational and National Black History Month Celebration highlight Tennessee’s rich history.

12. Are there camping options at festivals like Bonnaroo?

• Yes, Bonnaroo offers extensive camping packages. Check their website for details and early reservations.

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